A cameo is a form of glyptography, or bas-relief carving, most often cut into glass, hard-stones, and shells. Artworks were crafted to create two layers on one piece of material, the top of which protruded from its background, creating a multi-dimensional artwork. These detailed reliefs were often used to adorn pieces of jewelry, including brooches, necklaces, bracelets and rings. The earliest cameos took inspiration from prehistoric petroglyphs, which documented important religious and symbolic iconography onto rock faces.
Victorians loved cameos, and wore them prolifically throughout the era, often purchasing them as souvenirs on their Grand Tours. Popular subject matter ranged from Mythology to classical literature.
Converted from an antique stickpin, this cameo ring features a carved shell cameo depicting the profile of a lovely lady wearing a headdress or diadem, most likely Hera or her Greek counterpoint, Juno. Juno was the Queen of the Roman gods and provided support and protection over marriages and the women of Rome. The original setting has four natural seed pearl set at North, South, East and West. We have paired it with a 14 karat yellow gold vintage wedding band. A sweet, feminine accessory you'll love to have in your collection!
Details (approximate):
Size: 7.5-8
Weight: 4.2 grams
Materials: Gold, Seed Pearl, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 10K yellow gold (original element), 9K yellow gold (vintage band)
Marks: Band marked WC&S, 9, 375, Birmingham Anchor, O(1938)
Condition: Excellent converted Antique & Vintage condition commensurate with age and wear